Health and Care Visa vs Skilled Worker Visa: What Filipino Nurses Need to Know

For many Filipino nurses, the UK is a dream destination — offering competitive salaries, career growth, and a chance to work in a world-class healthcare system. But before you can book that one-way ticket, you’ll need the right visa.

Two main routes are available: the Health and Care Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa. Both allow you to work in the UK, but they differ in costs, requirements, and benefits. Understanding these differences will help you choose the best path.

The Health and Care Visa

The Health and Care Visa is a special route under the Skilled Worker category, designed specifically for health professionals like nurses, doctors, and adult social care workers.

Why it’s popular among nurses:

• Lower application fees compared to the general Skilled Worker Visa.

• No need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which can save you hundreds of pounds.

• Faster processing times — many applications are decided within three weeks.

• You can bring eligible family members (dependents) with you.

  
  

To qualify, you must have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK employer in the health or social care sector — such as the NHS, an NHS supplier, or a registered care home.

The Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa covers a wide range of jobs across various industries, not just healthcare. Nurses can also apply through this route, especially if their job offer does not meet the specific requirements of the Health and Care Visa.

Key points to note:

• Open to many different skilled professions.

• You can still bring eligible dependents.

• You must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge and higher visa fees.

• Processing times are generally standard unless you pay for priority service.

  
  

While it offers flexibility, it’s often more expensive and slower compared to the Health and Care Visa.

Main Differences in Simple Terms

The Health and Care Visa is faster, cheaper, and designed specifically for those in health and social care roles. It waives the IHS and has lower fees, making it more cost-effective. The Skilled Worker Visa is broader in scope, covering many professions, but comes with higher costs and standard processing times.

If you’re a nurse working for the NHS or another approved healthcare provider, the Health and Care Visa is almost always the better choice.

Tips for Filipino Nurses Before Applying

• Check if your employer is on the UK’s list of approved sponsors.

• Prepare essential documents early, including your passport, TB test certificate, IELTS or OET results, and proof of funds if required.

• Review your employment contract carefully — look at salary, working hours, and any relocation support offered.

• If unsure, ask your recruitment agency or employer which visa is most suitable for you.

For most Filipino nurses, the Health and Care Visa offers a smoother, faster, and more affordable route to the UK. The Skilled Worker Visa is still an option, but it’s best suited for those whose job offers don’t meet the specific health and care requirements. Knowing these differences now will save you time, money, and stress later — so you can focus on what truly matters: building a rewarding career and a new life in the UK.

At present, both pathways to enter the UK are becoming increasingly challenging, with substantial tightening measures taking place. The new rules will take effect on July 22, 2025.